Abstract

Anti-reflection layers are critical to the performance of many
optical systems, including large area, cost sensitive products
such as displays, architectural glazing, photovoltaics, and solar
thermal collectors. The action of such layers is a product of a
low-refractive index, which can be achieved by multi-layer
interference stacks or (as in this work) via porous structures
whereby air filled voids provide a net reduction in index,
minimizing the reflection at each interface. In this work, we use
flame assisted CVD (FACVD) generated anti-reflection layers
which produce controllably porous silica film. Such films can also be grown with a graded refractive index, resulting in a highly effective anti-reflection coating. A further critical property is the durability of the films and their optical properties as performance can be lost due to environmental contamination and moisture ingress. We report on use of additional thin organic films, which could significantly enhance such durability.